When it comes to affordable and reliable rice cookers, Aroma is one of the most trusted brands in the market. Many readers reach this website through searches such as “Aroma rice cooker,” “Aroma stainless steel rice cooker,” “Aroma digital rice cooker,” and “best rice cooker.” Two of the most popular models are the budget-friendly Aroma ARC-363NG and the feature-rich Aroma ARC-914SBD.
This comparison review helps you understand the differences between these two bestselling models so you can choose the right rice cooker based on your cooking needs, budget, and kitchen size.
Aroma ARC-363NG Review (3-Cup Uncooked / 6-Cup Cooked)
The Aroma ARC-363NG is one of the best-selling compact rice cookers for beginners, small kitchens, and anyone who wants a simple appliance without digital controls. It is often labeled as an “Aroma mini rice cooker” or “Aroma small rice cooker,” and it remains incredibly popular due to its price and reliability.
Key Features
Compact Size
With a 3-cup uncooked (6-cup cooked) capacity, this cooker is ideal for students, couples, and small households.
One-Touch Operation
There are no complicated settings. Simply push a single switch and let the cooker handle the rest. When the rice is ready, it automatically switches to Keep Warm.
Nonstick Inner Pot
Easy to wash and lightweight, making cleaning much faster.
Included Accessories
The unit includes a rice measuring cup and serving spatula.
Ease of Use
The ARC-363NG is extremely user-friendly. For most users, a simple 1:1 ratio of rice to water works for white rice. Brown rice requires slightly more water.
Pros
- Very affordable price
- Lightweight and compact
- One-touch cooking
- Automatic Keep Warm mode
- Good for small kitchens
Cons
- No digital controls
- No steaming tray
- Nonstick inner pot may wear over time
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Aroma ARC-914SBD Review (Digital 8-Cup Cooked Rice Cooker)
The Aroma ARC-914SBD is a step up from the ARC-363NG. Often searched as “Aroma rice cooker model ARC-914SBD,” “Aroma digital rice cooker,” or “Aroma 6 cup rice cooker,” this model offers more capacity and more cooking functions. It is one of Aroma’s most popular mid-range rice cookers.
Key Features
Larger 8-Cup Cooked Capacity
This model is suitable for medium-sized families or anyone who cooks rice frequently.
Digital Controls and Presets
The ARC-914SBD features:
- White rice mode
- Brown rice mode
- Steam mode
- Delay Timer
- Auto Keep Warm
These options make it more versatile than the ARC-363NG, especially for users looking for an all-purpose grain cooker.
Stainless Steel Exterior
The durable stainless finish gives it a modern look and fits well in most kitchens.
Multi-Function Performance
This model doubles as an “Aroma rice and grain cooker” and can be used for vegetables, grains, soups, and light steaming.
Accessories Included
You get a measuring cup, spatula, and a steam tray.
Ease of Use
Although more advanced than the ARC-363NG, the ARC-914SBD remains simple to operate. The digital display and preset buttons make cooking more precise.
Pros
- Digital controls with preset cooking modes
- Larger cooking capacity
- Steam tray included
- Delay timer for scheduled cooking
- Strong stainless steel exterior
Cons
- More expensive than the ARC-363NG
- Slightly larger footprint
- Longer learning curve compared to a one-switch cooker
- Easy-to-use programmable digital controls complete with an automatic Keep Warm mode after each cycle
- An array of preset functions for every kind of meal: White Rice, Brown Rice, Steam, Flash Rice
- Steam meat, vegetables and more with the provided Steam Tray all while rice cooks below
- Perfectly prepares 2 to 8 cups of any variety of cooked rice or grains
Which One Should You Buy?
Both the Aroma ARC-363NG and the Aroma ARC-914SBD are excellent rice cookers, but they fit different needs.
Choose the Aroma ARC-363NG if you want:
- The lowest price possible
- One-touch simplicity
- A compact 3-cup rice cooker
- Basic rice and grain cooking
- A small footprint for limited counter space
Choose the Aroma ARC-914SBD if you want:
- A larger 8-cup cooked capacity
- Digital presets for better control
- A stainless steel exterior
- Steam cooking capability
- A versatile rice and grain cooker
Final Verdict
If your priority is price, simplicity, and compact size, the Aroma ARC-363NG is the best budget cooker you can get.
If you want more versatility, steaming functions, a larger capacity, and digital features, the Aroma ARC-914SBD offers far more convenience and control.
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